Activity Therapy: An Alternative Therapy for Adolescents

Abstract

The authors discuss the benefits of activity therapy for preteens and adolescents, describe the activity room, and list the materials needed to conduct this type of therapy.

Effects of Group Activity Play Therapy on Problem Behaviors of Preadolescent Ugandan Orphans

“…Early proponents of activity group therapy espoused a nondirective approach based on a belief that preadolescents would benefit from the opportunity to freely express themselves and direct their own activities (Schiffer, ; Slavson & Redl, ). More recently, researchers and academicians have demonstrated a renewed interest in examining the effects of applying humanistic principles to GAPT approaches with preadolescents (Bratton, Ceballos, & Ferebee, ; Flahive & Ray, ; Kottman, Strother, & Deniger, ; Packman & Bratton, ; Shen, ; Shen & Armstrong, ; Wilson & Ryan, ).…”

Innovative and Brain-Friendly Strategies for Building a Therapeutic Alliance With Adolescents

“…Adolescents may benefit from sand tray, as it is not dependent upon verbalization; the process also transcends cultural boundaries. The experiential, metaphorical communication utilized through sand tray also fosters self-direction and growth in teens, as it acknowledges their capability of learning experientially how to rely on their inner resources through the process (Kottman, Strother, & Deniger, 1987;Landreth, 1994).…”

A School‐Based Group Activity Therapy Intervention with Learning‐Disabled Preadolescents Exhibiting Behavior Problems

“…Group activity therapy was evaluated as an effective means of facilitating interaction. Kottman, Strother, and Deniger (1987) described the outcome of 12 weeks of activity therapy with a preadolescent male. The client was referred for externalizing behavior and helplessness.…”

“…Group activity therapy is a mode of helping preadolescents address problematic behavior that takes into account the cognitive and social-emotional needs of preadolescents (Bratton & Ferebee, 1999;Ginott, 1961;Kottman, Strother, & Deniger, 1987;Schiffer, 1952;Slavson, 1945) by providing preadolescents with both verbal and nonverbal means to develop relationships and work through and resolve conflicts (Kottman et al, 1987).…”